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Poll: Pot gets support, with conditions

Some Grand Junction residents believe medical marijuana centers should be allowed within city limits, but they also should be subjected to zoning and licensing restrictions, according to a survey conducted by the city.

The survey conducted by a volunteer group called the Master Panel Survey Group received responses from 174 participants who answered five questions. Participants represent a variety of demographics, and the surveys were submitted online.

In a sixth question in which participants were able to leave comments, some respondents expressed a desire to see medical marijuana dispensed through pharmacies, in the same manner in which prescription drugs are dispensed.

While medical marijuana is allowed for use by those with a medical-marijuana license in Colorado, the drug is illegal at the federal level. Prescription medications obtained through a pharmacy should be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Medical marijuana has not been approved for use as a medication by the FDA.

The following are excerpts from some respondents’ written comments. They were edited for spelling and grammar:

“These businesses have a right to operate. However, I do not believe all of the potential customers are in true medical need. This is a can of worms the state and the city have opened for increased tax revenue.”

“If it is a ‘medical’ ” prescription, then it should be dispensed by a licensed pharmacist/pharmacy, and we have plenty of those.”

“I believe the people of the state of Colorado have already voted on the issue of allowing it to be sold. Now it needs to be treated like a liquor store.”

“They should not be allowed next to schools, day cares or any retail outlets where kids are at or visit on a frequent basis, as well as within a mile of any park, swimming pool or restaurant.”

“Medical marijuana is legal and should be allowed without any additional requirements than pharmacies currently experience. In fact, there are a large number of narcotic abusers who should be considered as a public safety risk.”

“Let the caretakers handle their patients if that is the law. If marijuana is actually a medicine, it should not need any special dispensaries.”